Canopy Device

ABSTRACT

A canopy device includes a canopy membrane, first and second engagement members configured for being releasably securable to a chair, and first and second pairs of posts. The first pair of posts has first ends independently pivotally coupled to the first engagement member and second ends coupled to the canopy membrane. The second pair of posts has firsts ends independently pivotally coupled to the second engagement member and second ends coupled to the canopy membrane. The canopy membrane is reconfigurable from a collapsed configuration to a deployed configuration as the second ends of the posts are pivoted away from each other.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/328,284, filed Apr. 27, 2010, Attorney Docket No. 1854.0001P, entitled “Canopy Device,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a canopy for a support structure, such as a chair, and in particular, a canopy removably securable to a support structure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various designs for a chair including an attached sunshade or canopy are known. Conventional designs typically include a sunshade attached to the chair via a relatively bulky frame in order to sufficiently support the sunshade. Moreover, such conventional designs are permanently affixed to the chair, thereby limiting the utility of the chair and the sunshade. Alternatively, sunshades such as beach umbrellas may be used in conjunction with a conventional chair or by themselves. However, such detached sunshades are typically bulky and require substantial support in use, such as a base or anchor.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, a canopy device includes an engagement mechanism configured to be coupled to a support member, a first post including a first end and an opposite second end, a second post including a first end and an opposite second end, a first movable member coupled to the engagement mechanism, the first end of the first post being coupled to the first movable member so that the first post can be moved to different positions relative to the support member, a second movable member coupled to one of the first movable member or the engagement mechanism, the first end of the second post being connected to the second movable member so that the second post can be moved to different positions relative to the support member, the first post being movable relative to the second post, and a canopy membrane coupled to the second ends of the first and second posts, the canopy membrane reconfigurable between a collapsed configuration and a deployed configuration.

In one embodiment, the first movable member is rotatably connected to the support member via the engagement mechanism, the engagement mechanism being releasably securable to the support member.

In one embodiment, the engagement mechanism includes a platform, and the first movable member is connected to the platform and rotatable relative thereto when a force is applied to the first movable member that exceeds a first force.

In another embodiment, the second movable member is rotatable relative to the first movable member when a first is applied to the second movable member that exceeds a second force, the second force being greater than the first force.

In one embodiment, the canopy device includes an axle extending outwardly from and coupled to the engagement member, the first and second movable members being rotatably disposed on and axially aligned with the axle.

In one embodiment, the canopy membrane moves from the collapsed configuration to the deployed configuration as the second ends of the first and second posts are moved away from each other, and from the deployed configuration to the collapsed configuration as the second ends of the first and second posts are moved toward each other.

In one embodiment, a canopy device includes a canopy membrane, an engagement member releasably securable to a support structure, a pair of posts having first ends and opposite second ends, the first end being movably coupled to the engagement member and the second ends being coupled to the canopy membrane, wherein the canopy membrane is reconfigurable between a collapsed configuration and a deployed configuration.

In one embodiment, the pair of posts is a first pair of posts and the engagement member is a first engagement member, and the canopy device includes a second engagement member releasably securable to the support structure, and a second pair of posts having first ends movably coupled to the second engagement member and second ends coupled to the canopy membrane.

In one embodiment, each of the posts is movable independent of the other post relative to the support structure. In another embodiment, the first ends of the pair of posts can pivot about a common axis. In yet another embodiment, the first and second pairs of posts exert forces directed outwardly and away from the canopy membrane when the first and second engagement members are secured to the support structure and the canopy membrane is in its deployed configuration, thereby applying tension upon the canopy membrane.

In another embodiment, the forces exerted by the first and second pairs of posts are substantially dissipated when the canopy membrane is in its collapsed position.

In one embodiment, the pair of posts includes a first post and a second post, the first post is movably mounted to the engagement member and movable relative thereto in response to the application of a force that exceeds a first force.

In another embodiment, the second post is rotatable relative to the first post in response to the application of a force that exceeds a second force, the second force being greater than the first force.

In one embodiment, the canopy membrane moves from the collapsed configuration to the deployed configuration as the second ends of the posts are moved away from each other, and from the deployed configuration to the collapsed configuration as the second ends of the posts are moved toward each other.

In one embodiments, a canopy device includes a canopy membrane being placeable in a first configuration and in a second configuration, an engagement member releasably securable to a support structure, a first movable member, a second movable member rotatably coupled to the first movable member, a first elongate member including a first end coupled to the engagement member and a second end coupled to the first movable member, and a second elongate member including a first end coupled to the second movable member and a second end coupled to the canopy membrane.

In one embodiment, the engagement member includes a bracket having a first portion releasably securable to the support structure, and a second portion, and a third pivot member rotatably coupled to the second portion of the bracket.

In one embodiment, the first end of the first elongate member is rotatably coupled to the engagement member.

In one embodiment, the canopy device includes a third movable member coupled to the second end of the second elongate member, and a fourth movable member rotatably coupled to the third movable member, the canopy membrane being coupled to the fourth movable member so that the second end of the second elongate member is pivotally coupled to the canopy membrane.

In one embodiment, a canopy device and support structure includes a support structure having a support frame, a canopy membrane reconfigurable between a deployed configuration and a collapsed configuration, the canopy membrane being movable between an overhead position and a retracted position relative to the support structure, a first elongate member including a first end movably coupled to the support frame and an opposite second end coupled to the canopy membrane, a second elongate member including a first end movably coupled to the support frame and an opposite second end coupled to the canopy membrane, wherein the canopy membrane is movable from its collapsed configuration to its deployed configuration upon rotation of the first end of the first elongate member in the first direction and the first end of the second elongate member in the second direction, and the canopy membrane is movable from its overhead position to its retracted position upon rotation of the first ends of the first and second elongate members in the second direction.

In one embodiment, the first ends of the first and second elongate members are independently rotatable about an axis in a first direction and an opposite second direction,

In one embodiment, a canopy device that can be coupled to a support structure having a frame includes a mounting mechanism that can be coupled to the frame, a first elongate member that is movably coupled to the mounting mechanism at a first location; a second elongate member that is movably coupled to the mounting mechanism at the first location, and a canopy member coupled to the first elongate member and to the second elongate member, each of the first elongate member and the second elongate member being movable about the first location, the canopy member being disposable in a collapsed configuration and in a deployed configuration.

In one embodiment, the mounting mechanism includes a first rotatable member to which the first elongate member is coupled and a second rotatable member to which the second elongate member is coupled, the first rotatable member being movable relative to the second rotatable member.

In one embodiment, the first rotatable member frictionally engages the second rotatable member.

In another embodiment, the first and second elongate members are independently movable about the first location.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a canopy device attached to a chair according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side perspective view of the canopy device and chair of FIG. 1 showing the canopy in a deployed configuration and an overhead position;

FIG. 3 illustrates another side perspective view of the canopy device and chair of FIG. 1 showing the canopy in a collapsed configuration and a retracted position;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of the canopy device of FIG. 1 showing the device detached from the chair and folded;

FIG. 4 illustrates a rear perspective view of the canopy device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 illustrates a front perspective view of the canopy device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 illustrates a fragmentary rear perspective view of the canopy device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 illustrates another fragmentary rear perspective view of the canopy device of FIG. 1 showing components in phantom;

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded fragmentary perspective view of the canopy device of FIG. 1 and showing an engagement member therefor;

FIG. 9 illustrates an elevational assembly view of the engagement member shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 9A illustrates a perspective view of an engagement member according to another embodiment;

FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate schematic diagrams of a canopy device and chair and showing the movement of the canopy device from an overhead position to a retracted position and from a deployed configuration to a collapsed configuration;

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a canopy device attached to a chair according to another embodiment and showing the canopy device in a first orientation;

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the canopy device and chair of FIG. 11 and showing the canopy device in a second orientation; and

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of the canopy device and fragmentary perspective view of the chair of FIG. 11 and showing the canopy device in a third orientation.

Like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements throughout this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It is to be understood that terms such as “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” “side,” “height,” “length,” “width,” “upper,” “lower,” “interior,” “exterior,” “inner,” “outer” and the like as may be used herein, merely describe points or portions of reference and do not limit the present invention to any particular orientation or configuration. Further, terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., merely identify one of a number of portions, components and/or points of reference as disclosed herein, and do not limit the present invention to any particular configuration or orientation.

FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 illustrate a canopy device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Canopy device 10 includes a support frame 100, engagement members or engagement mechanisms 200, 250 configured for being releasably securable to a support structure such as a chair 50, and a canopy member or membrane 300 supported by the support frame 100. The canopy membrane 300 is reconfigurable between a deployed configuration C1 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) and a collapsed configuration C2 (shown in FIG. 3). In addition, the canopy membrane 300 is movable between an overhead position P1 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) and a retracted position P2 (shown in FIG. 3). While the canopy devices are illustrated as being coupled to a chair, the chair is just one example of a support structure to which the canopy device can be coupled. Instead of a chair, the support structure can be a bench, mat, seat, or similar structure. The support structure typically includes a support member that forms part of a frame for the support structure.

Referring to FIG. 1, in one embodiment the canopy member 300 includes a top portion 302, a side portion 304, another side portion 306 opposite side portion 304, and a rear portion 308. In some embodiments, the canopy member 300 may additionally include a front portion (not shown) opposite to the rear portion 308 and similarly configured thereto. The canopy member 300 is formed from a flexible fabric material, such as nylon, rayon or some other relatively light weight polymer or fiber fabric. As shown in FIG. 3A, when detached from the chair 50, the support frame 100 of the canopy device 10 may be conveniently folded, and the canopy membrane 300 wrapped around the support frame 100.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, in one embodiment, the side portion 304 includes an extension flap 310 (shown in phantom in FIG. 4) coupled to a lower edge 304 a of the side portion 304. The side portion 304 extends downwardly from a side edge 302 a of the top portion 302 by a distance L1, while the side portion 304 and extension flap 310 together extend downwardly from the side edge 302 a of the top portion 302 by a distance L2 greater than distance L1. Thus, the extension flap 310 effectively increases the surface area and width of the side portion 304. The other side portion 306 includes another extension flap 312 (shown in phantom in FIG. 4) coupled to and extending downwardly from a lower edge 306 a (shown in FIG. 1) of the side portion 306. The rear portion 308 may similarly include an extension flap 314 (shown in phantom in FIG. 4) coupled to and extending downwardly from a lower edge 308 a of the rear portion 308. In some embodiments, another extension flap (not shown) is coupled to and extending downwardly from a front edge 302 b of the top portion 302, or from a front portion (if provided) of the canopy 300 as described above.

Each of the extension flaps 310, 312, 314 may be integrally formed with or attached to the corresponding lower edges 304 a, 306 a, 308 a, respectively. Alternatively, the extension flaps 310, 312, 314 may be removably coupled to the corresponding lower edges 304 a, 306 a, 308 a, such as by snaps, clips, zippers, hook and loop fastener material, buttons, or some other decouplable fastening mechanism. In one embodiment, the extension flaps 310, 312, 314 may be folded upwardly and releasably secured to correspondingly aligned portions of the top portion 302, the side portions 304, 306 and/or the rear portion 308. Various fastening mechanisms may be employed for releasably securing the extension flaps 310, 312, 314 in a non-deployed position on the canopy 300, such as clips, snaps, buttons, zippers, or the like. For example, extension flap 310 may include hook and loop fastener tabs 316 a disposed proximate to a distal edge 318 thereof. Fastener tabs 316 a engage corresponding hook and loop fastener tabs 316 b disposed on an inner surface of the side portion 304 and proximate to the side edge 302 a of the top portion 302. Thus, the extension flap 310 may be easily and conveniently folded up and secured to the side portion 304 when a user wishes to reduce the overall width of the side portion 304.

Extension flaps 312, 314 may be similarly constructed and releasably securable to corresponding portions of side portion 306 and rear portion 308, respectively, such as via hook and loop fastener tabs 316 a, 316 b. Thus, the extension flaps 310, 312, 314 are easily and conveniently movable to a deployed position extending downwardly from their corresponding lower edges 304 a, 306 a, 308 a when in use. When not in use, the extension flaps 310, 312, 314 are folded upwardly and releasably coupled to the side portions 304, 306 and/or the rear portion 308. In alternative embodiments, the extension flaps 310, 312, 314 are detached from the side portions 304, 306 and/or the rear portion 308 when not in use.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, in one embodiment, the support frame 100 includes a pair of rear posts or elongate members 102, 104 and a pair of front posts or elongate members 106, 108. Rear post 102 includes a lower end portion 110 pivotally coupled to a frame member 52 of the chair 50, and an upper end portion 112 (shown in phantom) coupled to rear corner portion 320 of the canopy member 300. Rear post 104 includes a lower end portion 114 pivotally coupled to another frame member 54 of the chair 50, and an upper end portion 116 (shown in phantom) coupled to an opposing rear corner portion 322 of the canopy member 300. Front post 106 includes a lower end portion 118 pivotally coupled to the frame member 52 of the chair 50, and an upper end portion 120 (shown in phantom) coupled to a front corner portion 324 of the canopy member 300. Front post 108 includes a lower end portion 122 pivotally coupled to the other frame member 54 of the chair 50, and an upper end portion 124 (shown in phantom) coupled to an opposing front corner portion 326 of the canopy member 300.

In one embodiment, the canopy member 300 is removably attached to the support frame 100. The canopy member 300 may be decoupled therefrom, such as for washing, by sliding the canopy member 300 off of the upper end portions 112, 116, 120, 124 of the posts 102, 104, 106, 108. In other embodiments, the canopy member 300 is fixedly secured to the support frame 100.

The posts 102, 104, 106, 108 may be formed from a resilient material, such as fiberglass, spring steel, wood, or some other sufficiently resilient material that permits a limited range of flexion upon application of a force, but biases back to its original (e.g. linear) configuration once the force is dissipated. Preferably, the posts 102, 104, 106, 108 are formed from a relatively light-weight material, so that the canopy device 10 does not substantially increase the overall weight of the chair to which it is attached and/or is relatively light weight when detached from the chair for travel or storage (such as shown in FIG. 3A).

With continued reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the width w1 of the canopy membrane 300 is less than the distance w2 between the lower end portions 110, 118 and the lower end portions 114, 122. When coupled to the chair 50, the posts 102, 104, 106, 108 are flexed inwardly slightly, thereby generating an outwardly directed force. The posts 102, 106 exert a force F1 directed outwardly from the top portion 302 and the side portion 304 of the canopy membrane 300 when the canopy membrane 300 is in its deployed configuration C1 and overhead position P1. Similarly, the paired or adjacent rear post 104 and front post 108 exert a force F2 directed outwardly from the top portion 302 and the side portion 306 of the canopy membrane 300, also when the canopy membrane 300 is in its deployed configuration C1 and overhead position P1. Force F1 is directed in a substantially opposite direction to force F2. In this way, tension is applied to the flexible material forming the canopy membrane 300, thereby retaining the canopy membrane 300 relatively taut when in its deployed configuration C1.

In one embodiment, the forces F1, F2 exerted by the posts 102, 106 and by the posts 104, 108, respectively, are substantially dissipated when the canopy membrane 300 is moved from its deployed configuration C1 to its collapsed configuration C2 (shown in FIG. 3). In one embodiment, when the canopy membrane 300 is in its collapsed configuration C2, the material forming the membrane 300 is no longer taut and permits additional outwardly flexion of the posts 102, 104, 106, 108, thereby dissipating the forces F1, F2. Alternatively or in addition, when the posts 102, 104, 106, 108 are pivoted so that the canopy membrane 300 is moved to its retracted position P2 (e.g. behind the chair 50 as shown in FIG. 3), the tension applied to the posts 102, 104, 106, 108 is decreased.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, in one embodiment the canopy member 300 includes pockets 328 proximate each of the corner portions 320, 322, 324, 326 and configured for receiving the corresponding upper end portions 112, 116, 120, 124 of the posts 102, 104, 106, 108. The pockets 328 may be sewn into the canopy member 300. Alternatively or in addition, the canopy member 300 includes sleeves 330 proximate each of the corner portions 320, 322, 324, 326. Each sleeve 330 may be sewn into or secured to a corresponding surface of the canopy member 300, such as via adhesive, fasteners, or the like. As shown in FIG. 7, the sleeve 330 includes a tubular portion 332 through which the upper end portion 112 (or 116, 120, 124) extends. The tubular portion 332 is aligned with one of the pockets 328, so that the upper end portion 112 (or 116, 120, 124) extends through the tubular portion 332 and into the pocket 328. The sleeve 330 may also include a flange portion 334 having a sufficient amount of surface area for securing the sleeve 330 to side portion 304 (or side portion 306 and/or rear portion 308), such as by stitching 336.

In one embodiment, the sleeves 330 are formed from a resilient material, such as rubber, and frictionally engage and/or grip upper end portions 112, 116, 120, 124. For example, the upper end portion 112 (or 116, 120, 124) may be forced through the tubular portion 332 of the sleeve, slightly deforming the tubular portion 332 outwardly, so that the sleeve 330 grips the upper end portion 112 (or 116, 120, 124). As such, axial movement of the sleeves 330 on the corresponding upper end portions 112, 116, 120, 124 is eliminated or minimized Thus, the sleeves 330 do not easily slide upwardly or downwardly on the posts 102, 104, 106, 108 unless adjusted by the user. In this way, the canopy member 300 is properly maintained on the support frame 100. Further, because the sleeves 330 are secured to the canopy member 300 proximate to the lower edges 304 a, 306 a of the side portions 304, 306, the side portions 304, 306 and/or the rear portion 308 are maintained in their proper downward position relative to the top portion 302, as opposed to sliding or “bunching up” toward the top portion 302. Thus, the overall surface area and width (e.g. distance L1 as shown in FIG. 4) of the side portions 304, 306 and/or the rear portion 308 are maintained.

Referring again to FIG. 6, the lower end portions 110, 114 of the rear posts 102, 104 and the lower end portions 118, 122 of the front posts 106, 108 are pivotally coupled to the respective frame members 52, 54 of the chair 50 via the engagement members 200, 250

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, in one embodiment, the engagement member 200 includes a bracket portion 202 configured for being releasably securable to the frame member 54 of the chair 50, and an extension member 204 connected to and extending upwardly from the bracket portion 202. In one embodiment, the bracket portion 202 has a generally U-shaped configuration and defines a channel 206 through which the frame member 54 extends. An opening 208 extends through the bracket portion 202. The opening 208 is configured to receive a fastener, such as a thumb screw 210. The thumb screw 210 includes a distal end 212 that extends through the opening 208 and into the channel 206, and may be tightened against the frame member 54 as the thumb screw 210 is screwed into the opening 208, thereby releasably securing the engagement member 200 to the frame member 54 in a selected position. The engagement member 200 is easily loosened or detached from the frame member 54 by unscrewing the thumb screw 210 out of or away from the opening 208, so that the engagement member 200 is released from its selected position against the frame member 54.

In one embodiment, the extension member 204 has a generally L-shaped configuration and is integrally formed with the bracket portion 202. The lower end portion 114 of the rear post 104 is coupled to an exteriorly disposed surface 214 of the extension member 204 via a pivot member 216. Referring to FIG. 9, the pivot member 216 includes an inwardly disposed surface 218 defining a surface area, an opposite outwardly disposed surface 220 defining a surface area, and a side wall 222. In one embodiment, the pivot member 216 has a cylindrical configuration. An opening 224 extends through the pivot member 216 and between the inwardly disposed surface 218 and the outwardly disposed surface 220. An axle 226 is coupled to and extends outwardly from the exteriorly disposed surface 214 of the extension member 204. The pivot member 216 is movably disposed on the axle 226, and rotatable in a direction D1 about an axis A1 and in an opposite direction D2 about the axis A1.

In one embodiment, the pivot member 216 includes a bore 228 (shown in phantom in FIG. 9) configured to receive a distal end 114 a (shown in phantom) of the lower end portion 114 of the rear post 104. The distal end 114 a is retained within the bore 228 via friction fit, adhesive, and/or via some additional fastening mechanism. In an alternative embodiment, the pivot member 216 includes a retaining sleeve, cover or other fastening device coupled to the pivot member 216 and configured for securing the distal end 114 a of the lower end portion 114 thereto.

As shown in FIG. 8, the lower end portion 122 of the front post 108 is coupled to the extension member 204 via another pivot member 230, which may also have a generally cylindrical configuration. Referring again to FIG. 9, pivot member 230 includes an inwardly disposed surface 232 defining a surface area, an opposite outwardly disposed surface 234 defining a surface area, and a side wall 236. An opening 238 extends through the pivot member 230 and between the inwardly disposed surface 232 and the outwardly disposed surface 234. The pivot member 230 is rotatably disposed on the axle 226, which extends through the opening 238, and adjacent the pivot member 216. Thus the pivot member 230 is axially aligned with the pivot member 216, and rotatable in directions D1, D2 about the axis A1.

The pivot member 230 also includes a bore 240 (shown in phantom in FIG. 9) configured to receive a distal end 122 a (shown in phantom) of the lower end portion 122 of the front post 108. As described above, the distal end 122 a may be retained within the bore 240 via friction fit, adhesive, or some other fastening mechanism. Alternatively, the distal end 122 a may be secured to the pivot member 230 via a fastening device or within a correspondingly configured sleeve coupled to the pivot member 230

The pivot members 216, 230 are retained on the axle 226 via an end cap, or one or more fasteners such as threaded nuts 242 that are securable to a distal end portion 244 of the axle 226. Referring again to FIGS. 8 and 9, in one embodiment, the extension member 204 includes a platform 246 extending outwardly from and/or defined by a portion of the exteriorly disposed surface 214 thereof. The platform 246 includes a face 248 defining a surface area. The axle 226 extends outwardly from the face 248 of the platform 246. The inwardly disposed surface 218 of pivot member 216 is in contact with and frictionally engages the face 248 of the platform 246. However, the pivot member 216 is pivotal relative to the face 248 of the platform 246, and thus relative to the extension member 204.

The outwardly disposed surface 220 of pivot member 216 is in contact with and frictionally engages the inwardly disposed surface 232 of pivot member 230. However, the pivot members 216, 230 remain independently rotatable on the axle 226 relative to each other, and relative to the extension member 204.

The pivot member 216 is rotatable about axis A1 in direction D1 or direction D2 and relative to the extension member 204 upon exceeding a force that overcomes the frictional engagement between the face 248 of the platform 246 and the inwardly disposed surface 218 of the pivot member 216. The pivot member 230 is rotatable about axis A1 in direction D1 or direction D2 and relative to the pivot member 216 (or vice versa) upon exceeding a force that overcomes the frictional engagement between the outwardly disposed surface 220 of pivot member 216 and the inwardly disposed surface 232 of pivot member 230.

The force required to overcome the frictional engagement between the face 248 of the platform 246 and the inwardly disposed surface 218 of the pivot member 216 is less than the force required to overcome the frictional engagement between the outwardly disposed surface 220 of pivot member 216 and the inwardly disposed surface 232 of pivot member 230. As such, the pivot members 216, 230 tend to rotate together and/or simultaneously in direction D1 or direction D2 as the support frame 100 and the canopy membrane 300 are being moved from/to their overhead position P1 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) to/from their retracted position P2 (shown in FIG. 3).

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the engaging surface area between the face 248 of the platform 246 and the pivot member 216 is less than the engaging surface area between the pivot member 216 and the pivot member 230. In this way, greater frictional forces are generated between the pivot members 216, 230 compared to the frictional forces generated between the face 248 of the platform 246 and the pivot member 216

Referring again to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, the engagement member 250 has a substantially identical configuration to engagement member 200. However, engagement member 250 is a minor image of engagement member 200 with respect to the orientation of the components relative to the frame member 54 of the chair. Thus, the engagement member 250 includes a bracket portion 252 configured for being releasably securable to the frame member 52, and an extension member 254 connected to and extending upwardly from the bracket portion 252. An opening 256 extends through the bracket portion 252, which is configured to receive another fastener, such as a thumb screw, as described above.

The lower end portion 110 of the rear post 102 is coupled to the extension member 254 via a pivot member 258, and the lower end portion 118 of the front post 106 is coupled to the extension member 254 via another pivot member 260, such as described above and as shown in FIG. 8. Thus, the pivot members 258, 260 are independently movably disposed relative to the extension member 254, and axially aligned and rotatable in directions D1, D2 about a common axis.

Further, the extension member 254 may include a platform defining a face having a surface area, such as shown in FIG. 8. The pivot member 258 is rotatable about an axis (e.g. axis A1) in direction D1 or direction D2 and relative to the extension member 254 upon exceeding a force that overcomes the frictional engagement between the face of the platform and the inwardly disposed surface of the pivot member 258. The pivot member 260 is also rotatable about axis in direction D1 or direction D2 and relative to the pivot member 258 (or vice versa) upon exceeding a force that overcomes the frictional engagement between the outwardly disposed surface of pivot member 258 and the inwardly disposed surface of pivot member 260. The force required to overcome the frictional engagement between the face of the platform and the inwardly disposed surface of the pivot member 258 is less than the force required to overcome the frictional engagement between the outwardly disposed surface of pivot member 258 and the inwardly disposed surface 260 of pivot member 230, as described in detail above.

In alternative embodiments, the specific configuration of the engagement member(s) may vary. Referring to FIG. 9A, in an alternative embodiment, an engagement member 200A is provided which is similarly configured to the engagement member 200. Thus, the engagement member 200A includes a bracket portion 202 configured for being releasably securable to a frame member of a chair, and an extension member 204 connected to and extending upwardly from the bracket portion 202. However, the pivot member 216 is secured to the extension member 204 in an offset orientation, whereby a portion of the inwardly facing surface 218 extends outwardly from the extension member 204. As a result, a raised area (e.g. such as platform 246) is not provided, given the engaging surface between the pivot member 216 and the extension member 204 is reduced by the offset positioning thereof.

In other embodiments, the engagement members 200, 250 include alternative securing mechanisms different than the bracket portion 202. For example, the engagement members may be releasably secured via pipe or cable clamps, straps with buckle, hook and loop or clip fasteners, ties, spring clips, or the like.

When the user releasably secures the engagement members 200, 250 to the frame members 52, 54, respectively, they may not be properly aligned relative to each other and to the support frame 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, in one embodiment, the rotational axis A1 of pivot members 216, 230 of engagement member 200 is coaxial with the axis of rotation of pivot members 258, 260 of engagement member 250 when the engagement members 200, 250 are properly aligned on frame members 52, 54. If the user secures the engagement members 200, 250 so that their respective axis of rotation are angularly disposed (e.g. not coaxial), the engagement members 200, 250 tend to self-align when the canopy membrane 300 is in its deployed configuration C1. This self-alignment or adjustment is due in part to the outwardly directed forces F1, F2 exerted by the posts 102, 104, 106, 108 (as shown in FIG. 5). The outwardly directed forces F1, F2 bias the engagement members 200, 250 toward their “properly aligned” position relative to each other (e.g. whereby the rotational axis of pivot members 216, 230 of engagement member 200 is coaxial with the axis of rotation of pivot members 258, 260 of engagement member 250). In this way, misalignment of the engagement members 200, 250 on frame members 52, 54 self-corrects.

In other embodiments, the engagement members are fixedly secured to the frame members of the chair, such as via bolts, screws, pins, adhesive, etc. In some embodiments, the pivot members 216, 230 are rotatably coupled directly to the frame members of the chair, thereby obviating the need for the engagement members.

The movement of a support frame 1000 (similar to the support frame 100) and a canopy membrane 3000 (similar to the canopy membrane 300) relative to a chair 5 is illustrated schematically in FIGS. 10A-10D. The canopy membrane 3000 is moveable from its overhead position P1 (shown in FIG. 10A) to its retracted position P2 (shown in FIG. 10B) by exerting a sufficient force F3 on the support frame 1000 and/or the canopy membrane 3000 in a rearward direction. Rear posts 1020 and front posts 1040 of the support frame 1000 pivot about a connection point 2000 (e.g. such as the extension member 204 or the frame members 52, 54) until the canopy membrane 3000 and/or the rear posts 1020 contact a rear portion 7 of the chair 5.

Until the canopy membrane 3000 reaches its fully retracted position P2 (shown in FIG. 10B), the rear posts 1020 and front posts 1040 pivot together about the connection point 2000. At this point, the frictional force required to pivot the rear posts 1020 relative to the front posts 1040 is greater than the frictional force required to pivot the posts 1020, 1040 together (e.g. due to the differences in frictional forces generated between the pivot member 216 and the pivot member 230, compared to the frictional forces generated between the platform 246 and the pivot member 216).

Upon reaching the fully retracted position P2 (see FIG. 10C), the continued application of a sufficient force F4 on the support frame 1000 and/or the canopy membrane 3000 overcomes the frictional forces generated between the rear posts 1020 and the front posts 1040 (e.g. the frictional forces generated between the pivot member 216 and the pivot member 230). As a result, the front posts 1040 pivot relative to the rear posts 1020, so that the canopy membrane 3000 is reconfigured from its deployed configuration C1 (FIG. 10B) to its collapsed configuration C2 (FIG. 10C).

To redeploy the canopy membrane 3000 from its collapsed configuration C2 and retracted position P2, a sufficient force F5 is exerted upon the support frame 1000 and/or the canopy membrane 3000 in a forward direction. Rear posts 1020 and front posts 1040 of the support frame 1000 pivot about the connection point 2000 (e.g. such as the extension member 204 or the frame members 52, 54) until the rear posts 1020 are in a desired position, such as shown in FIG. 10D. In one embodiment, the front posts 1040 are then manually pivoted by the user while the rear posts 1020 are maintained in their desired position, so that the canopy membrane 3000 is again reconfigured from its collapsed configuration C2 (FIG. 10D) to its deployed configuration C1 (FIG. 10A).

In an alternative embodiment, stops 1025 (shown in phantom in FIG. 10A) are provided which engage the rear posts 1020 and/or the rotational pivot mechanism (e.g. pivot members 216), thereby restricting continued movement of the rear posts 1020 in the forward direction while allowing the front posts 1040 to continue pivoting about the connection point 2000 until the canopy membrane 3000 is in its deployed configuration C1.

In a manner to that shown in FIGS. 10A-10D, the canopy membrane 300 of the canopy device 10 is reconfigurable and repositionable. The lower end portions 110, 114 of the rear posts 102, 104 may be rotated in direction D1 or D2 (shown in FIG. 9), while the lower end portions 118, 122 of the front posts 106, 108 are rotated in the opposite direction D2 (or DD. Upon opposite rotation of the lower ends portions 110, 114 compared to the lower ends 118, 122, the corresponding upper end portions 112, 116 of the rear posts 102, 104 are pivoted away from the upper end portions 120, 124 of the front posts 106, 108. As a result, the canopy membrane 300 is reconfigured from its collapsed configuration C2 to its deployed configuration C1.

Conversely, the canopy membrane 300 is reconfigured from its deployed configuration C1 to its collapsed configuration C2 as the upper end portions 112, 116 of the rear posts 102, 104 are pivoted toward the upper end portions 120, 124 of the front posts 106, 108.

Further, the canopy membrane 300 is movable from its retracted position P2 to its deployed position P1 by rotating the lower end portions 110, 114 of the rear posts 102, 104 and the lower end portions 118, 122 of the front posts 106, 108 in the same direction D2. Upon rotation of the lower ends portions 110, 114, 118, 122, the corresponding upper end portions 112, 116 of the rear posts 102, 104 and the upper end portions 120, 124 of the front posts 106, 108 are pivoted in a forward direction (relative to the chair 50). As a result, the canopy membrane 300 is repositioned from its retracted position P2 to its deployed position P1.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a canopy device 20 according to another embodiment is illustrated. The canopy device 20 includes a canopy membrane 400 and a support frame 500. The support frame 500 includes an engagement member 502 configured for being releasably securable to a chair 50A, posts 504, 506, and pivot members 550, 560. Post 504 includes an end 508 coupled to the engagement member 502 and an opposite end 510 coupled to pivot member 550. The second post 506 includes an end 512 coupled to pivot member 560 and an opposite end 514 coupled to the canopy membrane 400.

Pivot member 550 is rotatably coupled to pivot member 560, similar to pivot members 216, 230 as described above. As such, the angular orientation of post 504 relative to post 506 may be adjusted by rotating pivot member 550 relative to pivot member 560. The engaging surface area between the pivot members 550, 560 generates sufficient friction such that the position of the posts 504, 506 relative to each other is maintained and supports the canopy membrane 400 in a user selected position. The frictional force between the pivot members 550, 560 may be overcome by the user by grasping post 504 and/or post 506 and effectuating rotational movement therebetween.

Referring to FIG. 13, in one embodiment, the engagement member 502 includes a bracket portion 516 configured for releasably securing the engagement member to a frame member 52A of the chair 50A, and an extension member 518. Another pivot member 570 is rotatably coupled to the extension member 518. The end 508 of post 504 is coupled to the pivot member 570, so that the post 504 is pivotally coupled to the extension member 518 and relative to the chair 50A. In one embodiment, the extension member 518 is movably coupled to the bracket portion 516, and rotatable about an axis substantially perpendicular to a support surface S and/or to an upwardly facing surface 517 of the bracket portion 516. Thus, the post 504 may be rotated and/or pivoted, thereby increasing the range of motion and potential adjustments to the canopy membrane 400.

Alternatively or in addition, the end 514 of post 506 is coupled to another pivot member 580. The canopy membrane 400 is coupled another pivot member 590, such as via a support bar 402 and associated brackets 404, 406. Pivot member 580 is rotatably coupled to pivot member 590, so that the angular orientation of the support bar 402 (and thus the canopy membrane 400) is adjustable relative to the post 506. The engaging surface area between the pivot members 580, 590 generates sufficient friction to maintain the canopy membrane 400 in a user selected position relative to the post 506, as described above.

The disclosed assembly of pivotally and rotatably coupled posts 504, 506 functions as an articulated arm structure for easily adjusting the orientation and position of the canopy membrane 400 relative to the chair 50A.

In one embodiment, the canopy membrane 400 may be formed from a flexible material, similar to canopy membrane 300 as described above. In alternative embodiments, the canopy membrane is formed from one or more relatively rigid segments. For example, the canopy membrane may include a plurality of rigid and hingedly attached segments formed from a light-weight polymer material.

Although the disclosed inventions are illustrated and described herein as embodied in one or more specific examples, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the inventions and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims.

For example, the specific configuration of the pivot members disclosed for the various embodiments may vary depending on the material from which they are formed. For example, the pivot members may be formed from a rubber or other plastic material, steel, wood, etc.

In addition, although the engaging surfaces of the pivot members and/or extension members of the various embodiments are illustrated as being substantially planar, the engaging surfaces may alternatively or additionally include detents, ribs, textured surfaces, etc. for increasing or decreasing the frictional forces generated therebetween.

In alternative embodiments, the posts or elongate members can be mounted for a type of movement different than rotating or pivoting movement. For example, the elongate members can be slid or translated. In other words, the points at which the elongate members are connected or mounted can move up or down, toward the front or back, or side-to-side.

Further, the range of motion of the pivot members may be controlled and/or restricted via detents, stops, etc. For example, detents may be provided for releasably locking the support frame and/or canopy in a predetermined position or configuration.

In addition, various features from one of the embodiments may be incorporated into another of the embodiments. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the following claims. 

1. A canopy device comprising: an engagement mechanism configured to be coupled to a support member; a first post including a first end and an opposite second end; a second post including a first end and an opposite second end; a first movable member coupled to the engagement mechanism, the first end of the first post being coupled to the first movable member so that the first post can be moved to different positions relative to the support member; a second movable member coupled to one of the first movable member or the engagement mechanism, the first end of the second post being connected to the second movable member so that the second post can be moved to different positions relative to the support member, the first post being movable relative to the second post; and a canopy membrane coupled to the second ends of the first and second posts, the canopy membrane reconfigurable between a collapsed configuration and a deployed configuration.
 2. The canopy device of claim 1, wherein the first movable member is rotatably connected to the support member via the engagement mechanism, the engagement mechanism being releasably securable to the support member.
 3. The canopy device of claim 1, wherein the engagement mechanism includes a platform, and the first movable member is connected to the platform and rotatable relative thereto when a force is applied to the first movable member that exceeds a first force.
 4. The canopy device of claim 3, wherein the second movable member is rotatable relative to the first movable member when a force is applied to the second movable member that exceeds a second force, the second force being greater than the first force.
 5. The canopy device of claim 1, further comprising an axle extending outwardly from and coupled to the engagement member, the first and second movable members being rotatably disposed on and axially aligned with the axle.
 6. The canopy device of claim 1, wherein the canopy membrane moves from the collapsed configuration to the deployed configuration as the second ends of the first and second posts are moved away from each other, and from the deployed configuration to the collapsed configuration as the second ends of the first and second posts are moved toward each other.
 7. A canopy device comprising: a canopy membrane; an engagement member releasably securable to a support structure; a pair of posts having first ends and opposite second ends, the first end being movably coupled to the engagement member and the second ends being coupled to the canopy membrane, wherein the canopy membrane is reconfigurable between a collapsed configuration and a deployed configuration.
 8. The canopy device of claim 7, wherein the pair of posts is a first pair of posts and the engagement member is a first engagement member, the canopy device further comprising: a second engagement member releasably securable to the support structure; and a second pair of posts having first ends movably coupled to the second engagement member and second ends coupled to the canopy membrane.
 9. The canopy device of claim 7, wherein each of the posts is movable independent of the other post relative to the support structure.
 10. The canopy device of claim 7, wherein the first ends of the pair of posts can pivot about a common axis.
 11. The canopy device of claim 8, wherein the first and second pairs of posts exert forces directed outwardly and away from the canopy membrane when the first and second engagement members are secured to the support structure and the canopy membrane is in its deployed configuration, thereby applying tension upon the canopy membrane.
 12. The canopy device of claim 11, wherein the forces exerted by the first and second pairs of posts are substantially dissipated when the canopy membrane is in its collapsed position.
 13. The canopy device of claim 7, wherein the pair of posts includes a first post and a second post, the first post is movably mounted to the engagement member and movable relative thereto in response to the application of a force that exceeds a first force.
 14. The canopy device of claim 13, wherein the second post is rotatable relative to the first post in response to the application of a force that exceeds a second force, the second force being greater than the first force.
 15. The canopy device of claim 7, wherein the canopy membrane moves from the collapsed configuration to the deployed configuration as the second ends of the posts are moved away from each other, and from the deployed configuration to the collapsed configuration as the second ends of the posts are moved toward each other.
 16. A canopy device, comprising: a canopy membrane being placeable in a first configuration and in a second configuration; an engagement member releasably securable to a support structure; a first movable member; a second movable member rotatably coupled to the first movable member; a first elongate member including a first end coupled to the engagement member and a second end coupled to the first movable member; and a second elongate member including a first end coupled to the second movable member and a second end coupled to the canopy membrane.
 17. The canopy device of claim 16, wherein the engagement member comprises: a bracket having a first portion releasably securable to the support structure, and a second portion; and a third pivot member rotatably coupled to the second portion of the bracket.
 18. The canopy device of claim 16, wherein the first end of the first elongate member is rotatably coupled to the engagement member.
 19. The canopy device of claim 16, further comprising: a third movable member coupled to the second end of the second elongate member; and a fourth movable member rotatably coupled to the third movable member, the canopy membrane being coupled to the fourth movable member so that the second end of the second elongate member is pivotally coupled to the canopy membrane.
 20. A canopy device and support structure, comprising: a support structure having a support frame; a canopy membrane reconfigurable between a deployed configuration and a collapsed configuration, the canopy membrane being movable between an overhead position and a retracted position relative to the support structure; a first elongate member including a first end movably coupled to the support frame and an opposite second end coupled to the canopy membrane; a second elongate member including a first end movably coupled to the support frame and an opposite second end coupled to the canopy membrane, wherein the canopy membrane is movable from its collapsed configuration to its deployed configuration upon rotation of the first end of the first elongate member in the first direction and the first end of the second elongate member in the second direction, and the canopy membrane is movable from its overhead position to its retracted position upon rotation of the first ends of the first and second elongate members in the second direction.
 21. The canopy device and support structure of claim 20, wherein the first ends of the first and second elongate members are independently rotatable about an axis in a first direction and an opposite second direction,
 22. A canopy device that can be coupled to a support structure having a frame, the canopy device comprising: a mounting mechanism that can be coupled to the frame; a first elongate member that is movably coupled to the mounting mechanism at a first location; a second elongate member that is movably coupled to the mounting mechanism at the first location; and a canopy member coupled to the first elongate member and to the second elongate member, each of the first elongate member and the second elongate member being movable about the first location, the canopy member being disposable in a collapsed configuration and in a deployed configuration.
 23. The canopy device of claim 22, wherein the mounting mechanism includes a first rotatable member to which the first elongate member is coupled and a second rotatable member to which the second elongate member is coupled, the first rotatable member being movable relative to the second rotatable member.
 24. The canopy device of claim 22, wherein the first rotatable member frictionally engages the second rotatable member.
 25. The canopy device of claim 25, wherein the first and second elongate members are independently movable about the first location. 